Referring to the "dead tree technology" of books this session was comprised of passionate booktalks by Jack McGovern. Gave a list of Challenging Adolescent Literature--fiction and nonfiction (will share lists). These books can be part of "the tender bridge" from Harry Potter to James Joyce.
Three nonfiction books:
E=MC2 by David Bodanis ( those interested in science)
In Code, a Mathematical Journey by Sarah Flannery (autobiographical-math genius)
Swimming to Antarctica, Tales of a Long Distance Swimmer by Lynne Cox (determination)

Fiction:
Octavian Nothing by M. T. Anderson (slavery and how we look at intelligence--only for the most mature middle school student)
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick (part graphic novel)
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld (Brave New World, especially for girls)